The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani is once again on the path to clinching another unanimous MVP award. Ohtani wasted no time in showcasing his talent, hitting his first home run of the season during the Dodgers' 6-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs in Game 2 of the Tokyo Series on Wednesday. However, this home run wasn't without its share of controversy.
During the fifth inning of the game, Ohtani took a powerful 99.1 mph fastball from Cubs reliever Nate Pearson and sent it soaring to deep center. The ball struck the wall near the yellow home-run strip, leaving fans and viewers questioning whether it truly cleared the fence. As Ohtani jogged towards second base, an umpire signaled a home run, but the play was immediately put under review.
Replays indicated that a fan may have interfered with the ball’s trajectory before it left the field of play. Notable commentators Adam Amin and A.J. Pierzynski discussed the incident, suggesting that the fan’s hand made contact with the ball. Despite the debate, the umpires upheld their original call, awarding Ohtani a home run that extended the Dodgers' lead to 6-2.
While the outcome of the game was not affected, the decision regarding Ohtani's home run raised questions. According to MLB rules, spectator interference is a subjective judgment call made by the umpires. The official definition of spectator interference states: "In every case of spectator interference with a batted or thrown ball, the ball shall be declared dead, and the baserunners can be placed where the umpire determines they would have been without the interference."
In this instance, the umpires likely concluded that the ball was on its way out of the park before the fan made contact. Given the height of the outfield wall at the Tokyo Dome, the fan's interference did not impede Cubs centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong from potentially catching the ball, further justifying the decision to allow Ohtani to circle the bases.
While Cubs fans may have felt disappointed with the umpires' ruling, the moment became a highlight of the Tokyo Series. The crowd erupted in cheers when Ohtani's home run was confirmed, underscoring his status as one of baseball’s most electrifying players. This incident served as a reminder of Ohtani's immense talent and his ongoing pursuit of another NL MVP award.
As the 2025 MLB season approaches, fans can join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Baseball league to keep the excitement alive. Ohtani's remarkable performance continues to captivate audiences, solidifying his position as a key player to watch in the upcoming season.
